Mara Watch: week one

15th September 2009

Sadly the BBC have not recommissioned Big Cat Diary Week Live for 2009. Fortunately the principal cast from the show are still in rude good health on the fabled plains of the Mara Reserve. Paul Goldstein, who has spent countless time guiding in the Mara and Antarctica with Jonathan Scott, is currently leading six photographic safaris there and is keeping wildlife fans updated with the goings on of those beautiful predators. Each week we receive the pick from his fantastic safaris.

To see more of these spectacular shots come to the Royal Geographical Society on 8th Dec - Mara Watch 2009 - when he will thrill any wilderness fans with his take on the Mara this year. Presenting with him will be Mr Travel himself, Simon Calder.

Mara Watch Week One

Dusty plains have been transformed recently because of several thunderous downpours. Predators and prey are acting with increased vigour and although there may be no BBC filming this year, the first Exodus photographic safaris have had a staggering amount of good fortune. Out on the plains of the Mara we've caught up with many of the characters from the TV show including the stunningly beautiful Shakira. Here is a brief taster of the last safari. Like them? good, because there will be five more postings over the next five weeks.

Exodus clients' comments from Week One

'Amazing, I've lost count of the leopards and cheetahs' Mike Orriss

'First ever safari - hit the jackpot. Will probably never surpass this trip' Michael Hickey

Click on the images to enlarge and appreciate full size image

Pictures from the Mara for week one

	Left: Local lions across from Kicheche Migration Camp Right: Plenty of crossings with the hot weather and low water levels, here a croc is thwarted and a young gnu gets a very lucky escape.
	Olive, mature leopard mum from BCD last year, spent a whole morning with her whilst she hunted.
	Next five images: This frail cheetah mother lost her whole brood last Xmas on Bila Shaka marsh, thankfully she seems more successful with these offspring. Her facial scar is an obvious diagnostic. Spent a whole afternoon while the cubs played and mum indulged them.

	Left: The stunningly beautiful yet ludicrously named Shakira Right: Shakira, a wonderful hunter tucking into a sub-adult Thomsons gazelle with her almost grown up cubs.

Above: Two of the three cheetah brothers that rule Rhino Ridge and hunt with impunity.	Above: Three females after a botched hunt, ten minutes from camp.	Above: Yes! After many days of searching and only hearing rumours, finally caught up with Olive's two very young cubs - approx 6-7 weeks